I have yet to master melting butter in the microwave without having to clean up a splattery mess. As a result, I rely on my stovetop and my 2-cup capacity saucepan whenever I need to melt butter. The Farberware butterwarmer will hold a bit more, and it has a handy spout to eliminate dripping. You can also use it to heat sauces or wine. I’ve owned Farberware in the past, with good results. Priced at $6.00, I consider this a cheap investment if the pot doesn’t last.

A word of caution: The Teflon on the bottom of this pan gives off toxic fumes that has proved fatal with birds. If you own a bird, you’ll want to take this into consideration.